RaPTIR: Radio-wave propagation through ionosphere regions CubeSat mission

Abstract

Summary form only given. The ionosphere plays an important role in radio-wave propagation. Lower frequency waves are deflected, and higher frequency waves are degraded in terms of amplitude, phase and polarization. The characteristics of this layer are due largely to solar conditions. The varying solar conditions cause great variability at different daily times, seasons, position and altitudes. Different techniques have been used to measure the ionosphere in the past, but they are limited in spatial coverage and resolution. This paper presents a mission concept for a CubeSat constellation which collects simultaneous measurements from different spatial positions. With this detailed information it will be possible to better understand ionospheric physics and improve associated models.